Austin Miller Lexington, NC Shooting Update: Cherished 25-Year-Old Son, Passes Away in Heartbreaking Hickory Incident, Murder Inquiry in Progress
Get the latest updates on the tragic shooting in Hickory that claimed the life of a beloved 25-year-old, Austin Miller. A homicide investigation is cu
A 25-year-old man from Lexington, Austin Lee Matthew Miller, was fatally shot early Sunday morning in an incident that the Hickory Police department links to a domestic issue that originated in Caldwell County.
At 2:42 a.m. on December 7, officers were dispatched to the area near Main Avenue SW and U.S. Highway 321 following reports of gunfire. Upon their arrival, they discovered Miller with gunshot injuries. Unfortunately, he was declared dead at the scene.
Investigators state that the shooting took place amid a domestic conflict involving people driving south on Highway 321 towards Hickory. James Michael Church, aged 32 from Granite Falls, was found at the location and has been identified as the shooter of Miller.
As of December 8, there have been no arrests made, and the investigation remains open and active.
The Hickory Police are requesting that anyone with relevant information reach out to Investigator Ben Rogers at 828‑261‑2614 or via email at brogers@hickorync.gov.
Family Grieving a Significant Loss
The passing of Miller has caused immense sorrow for both his family and the community. His mother, Amber Nicole Miller, posted a poignant message reflecting the close relationship she shared with her son:
"If you met Austin, you recognized one truth: he cherished his mother deeply, just as I cherished him. I have found myself looking at my phone, fixated on the missed call from 12:24 a.m. when he left for Hickory, and the dead battery at 3:00 a.m. on Highway 321... on his way home. Trying to comprehend it all."
"I never miss his calls. I am always available when he requires support. On any typical Saturday night, I would have been awake. I would have picked up and told him, 'Come to me, or I will come to you.'"
Those who knew Austin describe him as a supportive and faithful individual, and his absence will be keenly felt by his friends.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into this homicide is continuing, and more information is anticipated as detectives gather details regarding the circumstances that led to the shooting. Local officials are urging anyone with potential insights to come forward and assist with the investigation.